How to Get Around Western Australia

Fly between regions. Perth to Broome is 2,200 km; the drive takes days and there is very little in between. Perth to Exmouth is 1,250 km. Domestic flights are the only practical way to combine the state's regions in one trip.

A car is essential locally. The southwest is a straightforward drive from Perth; the north needs planning, and the Gibb River Road needs a 4WD and is closed in the wet.

Perth has trains, buses and free CAT buses through the centre and Fremantle, plus a rail line to the airport.

Distances between fuel stops reach 200-300 km on the northern highways. Carry water, tell someone your route, and never leave a broken-down vehicle.

Rottnest is reached by ferry from Perth or Fremantle; no private cars are allowed on the island, and bicycles are the way around it.